Why Dealers Ask: 'How Much Do You Owe on Your Trade-In?
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- The Trade-In Question:
- Dealerships often ask, “Do you have a trade-in?” early in the process.
- This helps them gauge your financial situation and evaluate profit opportunities.
- Why They Ask About Your Loan Balance:
- They want to determine your vehicle’s equity.
- Example scenarios:
- Positive equity: Owe $15,000 but car is worth $18,000 → $3,000 equity.
- Negative equity: Owe $15,000 but car is worth $10,000 → $5,000 deficit.
- Remember: The amount you owe doesn’t impact the actual value of your car.
- When to Disclose Loan Information:
- Only share loan details after negotiating the trade-in value and new car price.
- Revealing it too early could reduce your leverage.
- How to Respond to Loan Questions:
- Divert the question:
- "Does my loan balance affect my car's value?"
- "Will you adjust the trade-in value based on how much I owe?"
- Flip the script:
- Ask, "How much do you owe on this new car?"
- Note: Dealerships also finance their inventory with loans.
- Divert the question:
- Negotiation Tips:
- Stay firm but polite to avoid seeming confrontational.
- Avoid discussing credit or loan details before agreeing on car and trade-in prices.
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